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Bathing your dog can be a chore, one that both of you likely don't look forward to much. The best way to get a dog to accept bathing well is to get him used to it from an early age. If you're already past that point, however, you can always take him to the groomer and wash your hands clean of the chore.
Different breeds require different frequencies in bathing, so it's best to consult with your veterinarian about just how much your pet should be bathed. You don't want to bathe him too frequently because that can dry out his skin. You should also ask your vet to recommend a dog shampoo, and be sure not to use shampoos made for people.
First, you'll need some supplies. These include shampoo, a washcloth or sponge, towels, a comb and/or brush, mineral oil, cotton balls, and a leash if necessary. Depending on the size of your dog, you can bath him in a sink, tub or outside with a hose. Keep in mind, however, that you shouldn't wash your dog outside, and particularly not puppies, if the weather is too cold. Before beginning with the bath, first brush out any mats or tangles. Next, put a drop of mineral oil in your dog's eyes to protect them from the suds, and you can place cotton balls in his ears to keep the water out, just make sure that the they're not too small.
If you're using a sink or tub, fill it with warm water to about his knee level. Next, put your dog into the tub. You may want to have him leashed if he's likely to squirm away. Wet his coat thoroughly by pouring warm water over him with your hand or a cup or, if outside, using a low spray held gently against his coat. Then apply the shampoo and work it through the coat for about ten minutes, taking care to keep it away from his face. You can clean the face using a washcloth or sponge. Drain the tub and rinse thoroughly, making sure that all the soap is rinsed away, then gently squeeze out any excess water and remove the cotton balls.
One word of warning, be prepared for a good shake because you just might get soaked. Use towels to finish drying him off, and use cotton balls to dry the ears to prevent infection. You can also use a hair dryer on the coat, but be sure that it's set on low and don't blow air into your dog's face or ears. Depending on the length of your dog's coat, it can take quite awhile before it completely dries so be certain that he is kept warm and away from any drafts in the meantime. Last, enjoy your nice, clean pooch.
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